A.Celli Nonwovens’ Wingformer has been selected as the airlaid technology for two new projects with China-based Dalian Ruiguang Nonwoven Group and Italian producer Main SpA, respectively. In order to further expand its operations in the hygiene wipes market, Dalian Ruigang Nonwovens Group, one of China’s largest nonwovens producers, has recently signed a contract for the supply of a new spunlace line, designed to produce multilayered hygiene wipes incorporating airlaid pulp. The acquisition of a Wingformer, plus other state-of-the-art winding and slitting machinery also supplied by A.Celli Nonwovens, is expected to give the Dalian Ruiguang Group a competitive edge in this market. The decision of the Dalian Ruiguang Group to increase capacity with the installation of a new production line supports their commitment to process innovation and quality improvement. 

In a move to boost capacity, Italian airlaid producer Main SpA has recently finalized plans for the installation of one Wingformer forming head at its existing airlaid line. The Wingformer is expected to be operational in the second quarter of 2007. Increased investments in Wingformer airlaid technology reinforces the general consensus that airlaid is fast becoming the material of choice for the wipes and absorbent core segments mainly due to its tensile texture and absorbent qualities.

Stefano Pacini, airlaid project manager for A.Celli Nonwovens, commented on the Wingformer’s suitability to meet the demands of the future: “The availability of a new technology such as Wingformer opens up exciting opportunities for new products such as composite wipes featuring spunbond and airlaid materials and capacity increases that will provide a real advantage over competitors. Wingformer technology is higher performing in terms of flexibility, productivity and efficiency—it offers double the capacity and 30% lower energy consumption.”

Alessandro Celli, CEO of A.Celli Nonwovens added: “It is very significant that one of our first commercial projects for a Wingformer will take place in China. We are very proud and honored to have secured this project with the Dalian Ruiguang Nonwoven Group and take this opportunity to express special thanks to Gu Yuan Ming for his support and cooperation. We are always pleased to work together with companies who share a similar perspective regarding the importance of innovative technology for our industry.”